If you’re dealing with a temporary profile issue on Windows 10, you’re in the right place. We’ll walk you through using the Windows Registry (regedit) to fix this problem. You’ll learn how to identify and correct misconfigured registry entries to regain access to your original user profile.
How to Fix Temporary Profile Windows 10 Regedit
We’re going to dive into the Windows Registry to resolve the temporary profile issue. The steps will guide you through identifying and removing incorrect profile entries and restoring your original profile.
Step 1: Open the Registry Editor
First, press Win + R and type regedit, then hit Enter.
The Registry Editor is a powerful tool, so be cautious. Any mistakes can cause system issues. Always back up the registry before making changes.
Step 2: Navigate to the Profile List
Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindows NTCurrentVersionProfileList.
This folder contains all user profile settings. You’ll see several subkeys with names starting with S-1-5.
Step 3: Identify the Temporary Profile
Look for the subkeys with .bak extensions.
The .bak indicates a backup of your original profile. Compare the keys without .bak to the ones with .bak to identify the problem profile.
Step 4: Rename the Keys
Rename the key without .bak to something like _temp and remove the .bak from the original profile key.
This action restores the original profile settings. Make sure to double-check everything before renaming.
Step 5: Modify the RefCount and State Values
In the original profile key, set the RefCount and State values to 0.
Right-click each entry to modify the values. This step ensures the profile is not marked for deletion or errors.
Once you’ve completed these steps, restart your computer. You should now log in with your original profile intact.
Tips for Fixing Temporary Profile Windows 10 Regedit
- Always back up your registry before making any changes.
- Be sure to double-check the profile keys to avoid renaming the wrong one.
- Use a different user account with admin rights to make these changes.
- If you’re unsure, seek help from a professional or Microsoft support.
- Regularly update your system to prevent such issues in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes a temporary profile issue in Windows 10?
A temporary profile issue can occur due to corrupted user profile files, registry errors, or failed Windows updates.
Can I fix this issue without using regedit?
Yes, sometimes restarting your computer or using System Restore can resolve the problem without registry edits.
Is it safe to modify the Windows Registry?
Modifying the registry can be risky. Always back up the registry before making changes and proceed with caution.
What should I do if I can’t find the .bak key?
If there’s no .bak key, it may indicate a different issue. Consider using other troubleshooting methods or seeking professional help.
Will this fix delete any of my files?
No, this fix should not delete any files. It only corrects registry entries to restore your original profile.
Summary
- Open the Registry Editor.
- Navigate to the Profile List.
- Identify the Temporary Profile.
- Rename the Keys.
- Modify the RefCount and State Values.
Conclusion
Fixing a temporary profile issue on Windows 10 using regedit might seem daunting, but with careful steps, it’s manageable. Always remember to back up your registry before diving in. If you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help. Regular updates and maintenance can help avoid such issues in the future. Now that you’ve got the know-how, you’re ready to tackle this problem with confidence.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.